Liposuction

Liposuction, formally known as suction-assisted lipectomy and informally called 'lipo,' is a famous surgical procedure to reduce the localized fat cells in certain regions of the body. It removes excess unwanted fat from the body and results in improved and sculpted contours. Liposuction is not a weight loss method or weight loss alternative. If you are overweight, you must shed excessive fats through a rigorous diet, bariatric treatment, or exercise. Afterward, you can proceed with liposuction to address stubborn fat deposits because liposuction is used to treat the fats in the areas that remain virtually unaffected by diet or exercise.

What is Liposuction?
Types of Liposuction
Why Liposuction?
What are Concerns for Liposuction?
Steps to getting your procedure
Cost of Procedure
Why Yes Doctor for This Procedure
Frequently Asked Questions
Doctors that perform Liposuction procedures
Liposuction

What is Liposuction?

iposuction is a commonly performed surgical procedure that slims certain body areas by removing excess fat. The body contouring procedure utilizes vacuum suction to eliminate localized fat deposits. It should be noted that liposuction is not a weight loss procedure; it is a fat loss procedure instead. It mainly targets the areas resistant to exercise and diet. Liposuction is effective in changing contour as it permanently removes fat cells that are unevenly distributed. However, liposuction may not always (unless the amount removed is extensive) prevent further weight gain but rather affects weight distribution.

Liposuction is often offered as a minor and harmless surgery, but it is a complex procedure. Liposuction is science combined with art. It requires a practical application of scientific knowledge with precision and craftsmanship - a skill attained with clinical experience. A thorough training of the surgeon and in-depth knowledge about possible complications is essential before performing the procedure.

Liposuction can treat the following areas:

  • Abdomen

  • Ankles

  • Arms

  • Buttocks

  • Cheeks

  • Chin

  • Hips

  • Knees

  • Neck

  • Thighs

  • Upper arms

  • Waist

Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity and cannot substitute proper diet and exercise. Moreover, it is not an effective treatment for cellulite or saggy skin.

Before the procedure

During preoperative consultations with the patient, patient expectations regarding the goal of liposuction as contouring as opposed to weight reduction are discussed. The timeline for healing over several weeks is shared with the patient. A detailed discussion of risks and benefits is undertaken, including logistics, nature of the procedure, pain management, expected time course of recovery, expected course of management of complications, and warning signs and symptoms of postoperative complications. The patients are typically shown sample before and after photos of patients with similar body stature as the patient. 

Additionally, alternative management methods are discussed alongside the best, average, and worst-case scenarios related to the proposed surgery. The patient should understand the risks, benefits, and warning signs of the side effects of medications and treatments to be used in the procedure. 

In communicating expected amounts of fat removal, physicians use common volume measurements of everyday items to facilitate conceptualizing the amount of fat removed for patients unfamiliar with the medical units. Regardless of the method used, it is essential to accurately document the preoperative weight and linear measurements for precise comparison of the outcomes after the operation, in addition to standard medical photography.

During the procedure

A vast majority of liposuction procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. However, in some cases, depending on the patient's variables and the surgeon's preference, patients may stay in the hospital overnight.

Anesthesia

Just before the procedure, anesthesia is administered to comfort you during the procedure. 

The choice of anesthesia may be local, intravenous sedation, or general. There is no ideal method, as each has pros and cons, and the choice depends on the patient's overall health, the estimated volume of fat to be removed, and individual patient preference. Some patients may prefer local-only anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or even general anesthesia on a case-by-case basis. 

Since patients often focus on reducing downtime by selecting a minimally invasive procedure, most liposuction can be done awake, primarily when it is facilitated with laser liposuction.

Incision

Liposuction is performed through small, unnoticeable incisions.

First, diluted local anesthesia is administered to reduce bleeding and trauma. Then a thin hollow tube is passed through the incisions to dislodge excess fat deposits using a controlled back-and-forth motion. The loose fat cells are then suctioned out of the body using a surgical vacuum or needle attached to the cannula.

After the procedure

Liposuction results are visible once the swelling and fluid retention (common complaints after the procedure) subside. Immediately after the operation, the fluid and electrolyte balance of the patient is assessed. The patient's health record and the amount of fat removed determine the length of postoperative monitoring. Compression garments may be used for up to six weeks to lower the risk of edema. The timeline for recovery may sometimes be as little as 1 to 7 days depending on the areas where liposuction was performed. However, final results usually arrive over 3 to 6 months.

Types of Liposuction

  • Which Liposuction is Right for You?

    Choosing the right type of liposuction depends on several factors, including your body type, the amount of fat to be removed, and your overall health status. 

    A few certain requirements must be met to be eligible for liposuction. For example, the patient must show deviations from the regular body contour caused by excess fat deposits in that region. The weight should be close to the average weight and stable for six to twelve months before surgery. 

    Different invasive and non-invasive liposuction procedures are available to achieve the desired outcomes. Different types of liposuction include:

  • Tumescent liposuction

    Tumescent liposuction is the most commonly performed liposuction method. This technique involves injecting a saline solution, local anesthesia, and epinephrine into the targeted area before suctioning out the fat, which shrinks the blood vessels. This technique can help minimize bleeding and swelling. The fluid mixture causes the affected area to swell and stiffen.

    The surgeon then makes minor cuts into your skin and inserts a thin tube or a cannula under your skin. The cannula is attached to a vacuum that suctions fat and fluids from your body using negative pressure. Your body fluid may be restored through an IV line.

  • Power-assisted liposuction (PAL)

    Power-assisted liposuction (PAL) is a technique used to remove fat from the body through a small stainless steel cannula (a small tube) inserted through a small incision. The cannula is powered by a vibrating motor that moves back and forth to break up the fat cells and make them easier to remove.

    PAL can be used on various body areas, including the abdomen, hips, thighs, arms, and neck. This technique is beneficial for removing larger volumes of fat, fibrous or dense fat, or in areas where the skin needs to be tightened.

  • Ultrasonic liposuction

    Ultrasonic liposuction, also known as ultrasound-assisted liposuction or VASER liposuction, is a technique that uses ultrasound waves to liquefy the fat cells before they are suctioned out of the body. This technique is performed under local anesthesia, and a small metallic probe is inserted underneath the skin through a tiny incision to deliver the ultrasound waves to the targeted area.

    The ultrasound waves break up the fat cells and emulsify the fat, making removal easier with a cannula. This technique can be particularly effective in removing stubborn fat deposits, such as those in the abdomen, flanks, thighs, and arms.

  • Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL)

    Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL), also known as SmartLipo, SlimLipo, or laser lipolysis, is a cosmetic procedure that uses laser energy to remove excess body fat. The procedure involves the insertion of a thin tube called a cannula, which is attached to a laser fiber, into the targeted body area. The laser energy liquefies the fat cells, making them easier to suction out through the cannula.

    Laser-assisted liposuction can be used on various body areas, including the abdomen, thighs, hips, and arms. It is considered a minimally invasive procedure, and the recovery time is generally shorter than traditional liposuction.

    Laser-assisted liposuction uses only tiny incisions in your skin to perform the procedure.

Why Liposuction?

Liposuction is a popular surgical procedure to remove excess fat from the diet and exercise-resistant areas of the body. The procedure can be an effective way to achieve a more contoured, toned appearance and boost self-confidence. Some individuals may feel frustrated or self-conscious about their bodies despite regular exercise and a healthy diet, and liposuction can help them achieve their desired results. However, it is important to note that liposuction should not be portrayed as a substitute for a healthy lifestyle but rather a supplement to it. Ultimately, the decision to undergo liposuction is personal and should be made after careful consideration. Usually, liposuction is undergone for the following reasons:

  • Removes stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise
  • Improves body contours and proportions
  • Can be used on multiple areas of the body
  • Provides a more toned and sculpted appearance
  • Can boost confidence and self-esteem

What are Concerns for Liposuction?

Although liposuction is considered a safe procedure, like other surgical procedures, liposuction may also result in unfavorable outcomes and specific health concerns. Patients must be counseled before the procedure that some complications are expected, such as postoperative bruising, infections, pain, etc. A clear understanding of these complications is valuable for both the patient and the entire healthcare team. The better patients understand the complications encountered during or after the procedure, the better they can manage them and reap more satisfactory outcomes. The following are the potential concerns related to the liposuction procedure and its management

  • Pain

    It is normal to experience some pain, swelling, and bruising after liposuction. The pain level may vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Patients may experience soreness, tenderness, or discomfort in the treated area for several days or weeks following the surgery. The discomfort can typically be managed with pain medication prescribed by the doctor. To help manage pain after liposuction, patients are advised to wear compression garments as their surgeon recommends, avoid strenuous activity and exercise, and follow a healthy diet to promote healing. Sometimes, the surgeon may recommend lymphatic massage to help reduce swelling and pain and improve circulation.

  • Risk of Infection

    Like any surgical procedure, liposuction carries a potential risk of infection. The risk can be minimized by following proper hygiene and surgical techniques, such as using sterile instruments and maintaining a clean surgical environment. However, if an infection does occur, symptoms may include redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and fever. If a patient suspects they may have an infection after liposuction, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment may involve antibiotics or other medications, drainage of abscesses, and monitoring of the patient's condition. In some cases, additional surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue or drainage of fluid.

  • Uneven Results

    Uneven results after liposuction can occur for several reasons, including skin elasticity, differences in fat distribution, and uneven fat removal. Since the success of liposuction is based primarily on the provider's experience and skills; therefore, choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon who can accurately assess the patient's anatomy and determine the best approach to achieve their desired results is essential. In some cases, revision surgery may be necessary to correct uneven results. Communicating openly with the surgeon about any concerns or issues with the procedure results is important.

Steps to getting your procedure

Step 1

Research

Step 2

Matching with a doctor

Step 3

Getting financing

Step 4

Booking a consultation

Cost of Procedure

According to the most recent statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of the liposuction procedure is $3637. however, the average cost is just a part of the actual cost. The actual cost may depend on several factors, such as the cost of pre-and post-operative medicines, lab tests, and garments, anesthesia provider's fee, geographical location of the surgeon's office, and most importantly, the surgeon's years of experience. Since the liposuction procedure demands high skills and craftsmanship, the provider's experience may multiply the cost manifold. Moreover, the amount of fat removed may also affect the cost. Moreover, liposuction is a purely cosmetic procedure done for aesthetic reasons; insurance companies may not consider covering the cost of the procedure and resulting complications. It's better to ask your surgeon about the final cost of the procedure. While cost is an important consideration for many patients, it is essential not to prioritize it over the surgeon's qualifications and experience. Choosing a reputable and experienced surgeon can help ensure the best possible outcome and minimize the risk of complications.

Why Yes Doctor for This Procedure

Yes Doctor helps patients manage the cost of liposuction by providing flexible payment options that allow patients to spread out the cost of the procedure over time. We typically offer medical loans or payment plans tailored to patients' needs and budgets.

Our Medical loans typically have an interest rate as low as 0% and repayment terms ranging from several months to several years, depending on the amount borrowed. 

Our Buy Now Pay Later policy helps patients pay for the entire procedure upfront and undergo liposuction as quickly as possible without carrying any financial stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Liposuction can be a safe and effective way to improve body contour and remove excess fat when performed by a qualified surgeon and accompanied by proper pre-and post-operative care. The procedure has been performed for decades and has a proven track record of successfully removing excess fat and improving body contour. However, as with any surgical procedure, liposuction has potential risks and complications. These can include bleeding, infection, fluid accumulation, uneven results, scarring, and nerve damage. Patients should carefully consider these risks before deciding to undergo the procedure.
The recovery time for liposuction can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the procedure, the patient's health and healing process, and the surgeon's technique. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within 1-2 weeks following the procedure. However, it is important to avoid strenuous exercise or physical activity for several weeks to allow the body to heal fully. The final results of liposuction can take several months to become fully visible as swelling continues to subside and the body adjusts to the new contour. Patients should carefully follow their surgeon's post-operative instructions to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. It is a fat-loss procedure for areas resistant to exercise and diet and should not be relied on as a primary means of achieving significant weight loss. The weight loss from liposuction is typically minimal. The amount of fat that can be removed during liposuction is limited by safety considerations, including the patient's overall health and the amount of fat in the targeted area. Generally, the maximum amount of fat that can be removed during a single liposuction session is around 5 liters or approximately 11 pounds.
While liposuction is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, there are potential long-term side effects that patients should be aware of. These can include: Contour irregularities: Liposuction can cause unevenness or irregularities in the skin surface, which may be visible or perceptible. Scarring: While liposuction incisions are generally small and well-hidden, some patients may experience noticeable scarring or changes in skin texture. Numbness or nerve damage: Liposuction can cause temporary or permanent numbness or altered sensation in the treated area and nerve damage in rare cases. Changes in skin elasticity: Removing excess fat can result in changes in the elasticity and firmness of the skin, which may be more noticeable in older patients or those with less firm skin. Weight gain: While liposuction can remove localized pockets of fat, it does not prevent new fat from accumulating, and weight gain can occur if a patient does not maintain a healthy diet and exercise r... Show more.